Insights from Day One of F1 Las Vegas Grand Prix
Day one of the Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix has revealed several key insights as teams and drivers prepare for a pivotal race. The event is part of the 2025 triple-header finale, amplifying the unpredictability of the competition.
Drivers Respond to Criticism
At a media day event, John Elkann, the Ferrari chairman, suggested that drivers Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc should “focus on driving and talk less.” This comment came after the Brazilian Grand Prix. Both drivers managed to deflect media scrutiny effectively.
- Lewis Hamilton emphasized team responsibility, stating, “We all need to play our part.”
- Charles Leclerc referred to Elkann’s comments as intended to be positive, despite their contentious nature.
Ferrari’s performance has been under scrutiny this season, which started with hopes for a championship but quickly deteriorated. Leclerc’s consistent performance contrasts with Hamilton’s mixed results in his debut season.
Apologies and Team Dynamics
Isack Hadjar publicly apologized to his Racing Bulls teammate Liam Lawson for an aggressive maneuver during the Brazilian Grand Prix. The two drivers were contending for vital championship points when Hadjar felt he acted too hastily.
- Hadjar stated, “Honestly, I immediately jumped out of the car and came to apologize.”
- Lawson expressed respect for Hadjar’s apology and noted he would have made a similar move.
This incident highlights the importance of teamwork and communication in high-stakes racing.
Nervous Times for Tsunoda
Yuki Tsunoda is under pressure as Red Bull prepares to finalize its 2026 driver line-up. With only weeks before the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, he is keenly aware that his performance may dictate his F1 future.
- Tsunoda admitted, “If I say I’m not nervous, that would be a lie.”
- He plans to focus on improving his deliverables within his control.
Calls for Clarification on Racing Guidelines
Carlos Sainz has called for a review of Formula 1’s racing guidelines, particularly concerning penalties like the one given to Oscar Piastri at the Brazilian GP.
- Sainz stated, “The fact that Oscar got a penalty there is unacceptable.”
- He urged for a meeting to address multiple incidents throughout the season.
Concerns About Weather Conditions
The Las Vegas Grand Prix is notorious for its low grip track, which will pose challenges, especially with rain expected during Thursday’s practice sessions. Drivers expressed apprehension about wet conditions affecting their performance.
- Fernando Alonso remarked, “It’s going to be not fun.”
- Lando Norris predicted that the weather could lead to dangerous situations on track.
The rain is forecasted to clear by Friday morning, allowing for a more favorable race day on Saturday.
Driver Dispute Surfaces
An unexpected tension has developed between Lance Stroll and Franco Colapinto. Colapinto criticized Stroll’s maneuvers during the Brazilian GP, leading to a heated exchange.
- Stroll commented on Colapinto’s lack of points this season, suggesting he needs to focus on racing rather than disputing.
- Stroll’s remarks reflect his frustration, as both drivers currently struggle in their respective seasons.
Kimi Antonelli’s Season Setbacks
Kimi Antonelli, who recently achieved success in Interlagos, discussed the setbacks he faced earlier in the season due to a rear suspension issue that hampered his performance.
- He believes the disruption cost him two to three months of critical progress.
- Antonelli aims to finish the final races strongly, building on recent performances.
With the Las Vegas Grand Prix underway, these insights and dynamics will shape the upcoming races, as teams and drivers navigate both on-track challenges and off-track pressures.
